Air Conditioners For Condos
Many modern apartments and condos don’t come with built-in air cooling units. They do have floor-to-ceiling windows which offer great views, but also let in too much sunlight and heat.
If your house is equipped with ductwork, then a central AC could be the best option. However, if it doesn’t however, the HVAC contractors Brick spoke to say most board are now accepting mini-splits with ductless technology.
1. Window Units
Window air conditioners are an inexpensive and simple method to cool your condo without the need for ductwork. They remove warm air from the room and replace it with cooler air. This makes them an ideal choice for people on a budget or with older homes that don’t have ductwork. However, they have some drawbacks that need to be considered prior to making the purchase.
Window ACs are limited to cooling one room, making them not the best option for larger homes. It’s also important to choose models with high Energy Efficiency Ratings (EER) or Energy Star certifications. Furthermore, they pose a security risk, as windows are easily removed and give easy access to your home.
You may have to put in accordions, or even wood, to block out the extra space around the window. The majority of window units come with a window installation kit that you can use to easily install them yourself by sliding the chassis into the window and attaching the sleeve on the outside of the frame. For larger models with higher BTU capacity the chassis is designed to move across rails, and the sleeve is attached to the frame using brackets that hold it to the window.
To determine the size unit you will require to purchase, multiply the square footage by the number BTUs needed to cool the room effectively. To maximize efficiency, consider whether the room gets lots of sunlight or is located on the upper floors. A larger unit will be more expensive, but it can help you save on energy costs over time. Our HVAC experts recommend purchasing a central AC for long-term solutions. The initial cost may be higher, but it will pay off in the long run with lower monthly utility bills and a longer lifespan than window units with multiple windows.
2. Portable Units
Portable air conditioners are standalone cooling units that function like space heaters. The units are designed to plug into an outlet and the tube, or mini-duct, will run out an opening to vent heat and CO2 (not to be confused with the toxic gas CO2). The units can be moved from room to room and are usually sized according to their cooling capacity, which is measured by BTU ratings. A unit should be sized in accordance with the space it is intended to be used in. Oversized units will not keep cool and wear out faster than necessary.
These units are usually employed in apartment buildings and converted homes that do not have ducting systems, in which the principal cooling method is a central AC unit. By installing a portable AC unit in one or more of your rooms, you can lessen the load on the central system and save money and electricity.
The most effective portable units have a dehumidifier setting to decrease the amount of moisture. This is a typical reason for hot spots and it can make the space feel uncomfortable. The units should be equipped with washable filters for optimum performance, as well as a remote controller to make operation easier. Choose energy STAR certified models to save on electricity and money in comparison to non-certified models.
If you choose to go for a portable model, it’s important to choose the dual-hose model over a single-hose model. The dual-hose models allow outside air to be drawn into the condenser coils that are hot and then blown out via the other hose. This increases the efficiency and lowers the sound level of the unit. It might cost more to purchase a portable unit with this feature, but it can be worth the cost in terms of savings and ease of use.
4. Ductless Systems
Mini-splits are ductless alternatives for central air conditioners. They consist of an outdoor unit as well as one or more indoor units, and thin piping that is inserted into small holes in your walls. Ductless systems make a great choice for condos because they can be installed in areas where traditional HVAC ducts simply are not feasible. This makes them the ideal cooling option for a lot of Southwest Florida homes and condominiums, since homeowners often don’t wish to cut through the walls and floors to install ductwork.
In a ductless cooling system, the indoor unit cools air as it passes through tubing filled with refrigerant from the outdoor unit. The air conditioner is quieter when compared to other alternatives, so it’s possible to cool your space without disturbing others. Certain ductless systems also provide heating, so you can have year-round peace and comfort.
The ductless system is ideal for many spaces including sunrooms, garages, and bedrooms. They can also enhance comfort for older houses condominiums, apartments, and homes that do not have ductwork. This kind of system is also ideal for multifamily housing because it is able to easily adapt to different occupancy patterns and requirements.
A ductless system is more energy-efficient than traditional systems because it doesn’t have to push air over long distances. It also helps reduce your electric bills. These systems are also smaller than forced-air systems, which can help them save on installation costs and space.
Ductless systems are superior in cooling efficiency, and can be customized to your personal preferences in temperature. With a filtering system that eliminates harmful air particles, they can also improve the air quality of your condominium. This helps you stay away from asthma and allergies while also keeping your space cool throughout the year. Contact us today if you’re ready to learn more. Our technicians are on hand to assist you. We can help you determine the best air conditioner for your needs by assessing your requirements.